Empress Ale
A beer especially brewed to match spicy food has made it’s way to Lilu in Leicester. Kindly, they gave us a sample to try it for ourselves. As you would expect from a venue that makes so much of its high quality, locally sourced ingredients, the beer they serve is no different. Made by Langton Brewery of Leicestershire, Empress Ale is yet another string to the local ale bow.
Vibrant on the nose, Empress Ale is bursting with light, citrus and fruity aromas. A golden ale, with a slight cloud in the colour, it tastes very light but leaves a pleasing bitterness on the tongue which is both refreshing and works well with cutting through heavily spiced food and would hold its own well with something like the Lilu special marinaded paneer. It leaves the tongue both invigorated but also asking for more, and I can see that if you are a fan of creamier dishes like a Dal Makhni this will cut through the creaminess beautifully.
Light enough for the hesitant ale drinker because the malt flavours do not predominate, but still punchy enough for the seasoned drinker, this is the perfect drink for the beautiful sunshine we have been experiencing of late.
Available to drink with your meal at Lilu, Highcross Street or to buy to take home from 23 Wine and Whisky on Granby Street, this is sure to become something of a local favourite because it is such an easy drinking, laid back beverage.